Gambling is a form of risk-taking in which an individual stakes something of value, typically money, on an event whose outcome is determined at least partly by chance. While most people who gamble do so for entertainment, there are a number of individuals who develop gambling problems that can significantly impair their lives. A number of organisations provide support, assistance and counselling for people who have a problem with gambling.
It is important to recognise the warning signs of a gambling problem. People who are having trouble controlling their gambling may lie to family, friends or work colleagues about their gambling habits, or they might hide evidence of their gambling activities from others. They may also start to spend more time and money on gambling than they can afford, or they might attempt to recover lost money by obtaining loans or credit cards. They may become irritable or anxious when confronted with their gambling problems, and they may try to find ways to distract themselves from their thoughts about gambling.
People who have a problem with gambling can get help to control their problem by seeking therapy and other types of assistance, such as support groups, family and community education, and financial counselling. In addition, people who have a problem with gambling can benefit from lifestyle changes, such as exercising, spending time with non-gambling friends, and practicing relaxation techniques. They can also seek help for underlying mood disorders, such as depression or anxiety, which may trigger or be made worse by compulsive gambling.
While most people who gamble do so for enjoyment, a significant percentage of them have a gambling disorder, which is defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, as a persistent urge to gamble despite negative consequences. The DSM-IV, the American Psychiatric Association’s official guide to psychological disorders, lists 10 warning signs of compulsive gambling: Attempts to conceal the extent of involvement in gambling, frequent lying about gambling activity, making repeated unsuccessful attempts to reduce or stop gambling, losing control over expenditures, preoccupation with gambling, chasing losses, restlessness or irritability when attempting to cut back or stop, and jeopardising relationships, jobs, or educational or career opportunities because of gambling.
It is estimated that about 2.5 million U.S. adults (1%) have a severe gambling disorder in any given year. Another 5-8 million (2-3%) have a mild or moderate gambling disorder. While research is ongoing, it is clear that gambling can cause a variety of difficulties, and some individuals with a gambling disorder are at high risk of developing a serious mental illness, such as major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder. In addition, people with a gambling disorder often experience other problems, such as alcohol or drug abuse, domestic violence, and sexual or physical abuse. These problems can increase the severity of their gambling problem and make it difficult for them to seek help. They may also have difficulty in achieving healthy relationships and maintaining employment, which can contribute to feelings of loneliness and hopelessness.